news
THE ROYAL SOCIETY OF EDINBURGH ISSUE 16 • SPRING 2007
RESOURCE THE NEWSLETTER OF SCOTLAND’S NATIONAL ACADEMY
Glasgow’s People: Transcending Poverties The transformation of Glasgow over the last two decades has been dramatic, with evident regeneration of its economy, employment and housing. But there is still much to do to alleviate the poverty that affects many. In February a conference was held in Glasgow which investigated the continuing social, spiritual and cultural needs of Glasgow’s communities. This conference, initiated by RSE Fellows, Archbishop Mario Conti, Sir John Arbuthnott and Professor Tom Devine, was organised by the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and held in Glasgow City Chambers. A wide range of experts from within Glasgow and beyond spoke on the background and achievements of the regeneration programme, and focused on the deeper poverties of mind and spirit which underlie ongoing problems. With input from academics and social work practitioners, and support from Glasgow City Council and the Herald newspaper, the day proved thought-provoking and challenging for all who attended. A copy of the conference report will be available by May 2007 and can be ordered from the RSE Events team at [email protected] and viewed on the web site at www.royalsoced.org.uk/events
Alternatives to prison debate Recognising excellence 10 years of Dolly Research & Discussion
THE ENERGY CONFERENCE Friday 13 April 2007 at 10 am at the RSE Energy for Scotland: Is there a Consensus?
This conference will bring to a close the Energy is vital to our national well- Places are still available for the RSE’s facilitation of the energy debate being and should not be allowed to conference, which will serve to report in Scotland, which began with the become a political football. The debate on and distil the outcomes of the launch of the Inquiry into Energy Issues must encompass all aspects of energy, country-wide events. Speakers include for Scotland in May 2005. The not just electricity. The confrontational Lord Browne, Group Chief Executive, BP subsequent report was published in nature of the public debate, particularly plc, Duncan MacLaren, Chief Executive, June 2006 preceeding a country-wide between the various technologies, is Friends of the Earth Scotland and series of public discussion forums. The false, it inhibits decision-making, and Ambassador William Ramsay, Deputy RSE Inquiry Report is available on the results in a reduction in the options. Executive Director, International Energy web page in full and summary formats These issues affect everyone and the Agency (IEA). A conference fee will at www.royalsoced.org.uk/ RSE has sought to engage as wide a apply and lunch and refreshments will enquiries.energy/index.htm range of society as possible to debate be provided. For further information Events were organised between the issues and to help better inform the or to register, contact - October 2006 and March 2007 in decisions that need to be taken [email protected] - Aberdeen, Perth, Inverness, Glasgow, urgently. - 0131 240 5000. Edinburgh and Dumfries.
ALTERNATIVES TO PRISON NEW RESEARCH WORKSHOPS IN ARTS & HUMANITIES CONFERENCE
The RSE has initiated a programme of research awards in the Arts and Humanities. As Are custodial sentences the most the first stage of a 3-year ‘development phase’ for this programme, the RSE will fund effective way of combatting crime? This two Research Workshops, each worth £10,000, to be held between 1 September three-day conference was organised 2007 and 30 August 2008. These workshops are to promote collaborative research in jointly with Encounter in December the Arts and Humanities. 2006. A group of eminent speakers The first recipients of the awards were appointed in March 2007 and are: addressed the issues and discussion sessions allowed the140 delegates also Mrs Diana Murray to contribute to the debate. Royal Commission on the Ancient and Historical Monuments of Scotland Identifying A Conference Report has now been Scotland - Context and Collaboration. published and copies are available by This will take the form of a series of workshops devoted to research on the subject of contacting the Events Team at the RSE - the built environment and the concept of place in the changing cultural landscapes of 0131 240 5000 or e.mail Scotland. The collaborators on this project are the University of Edinburgh and [email protected]. The Report Edinburgh College of Art. can also be viewed on the RSE web site. Dr John Scally Director of University Collections, University of Edinburgh Darwin’s Scotland As part of the UK-wide celebration of Darwin’s life and work, this project will address the Scotland and the Scottish institutions that Darwin encountered in Edinburgh in the early nineteenth century, and also explore the lasting influence that Darwinism has exerted among Scottish intellectuals, artists and academics right up to the present day. The collaborators include Humboldt University, Berlin, City University of New York, Cornell University, Queen’s University, Belfast, National Library of Scotland, Edinburgh College of Art, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and National Museums Scotland.
The RSE hopes that an additional award may be made when confirmation of additional funding has been received.
2 President’s Perspective
The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) is Scotland’s National Academy of Science & Letters. It is an independent body with charitable status. The Society organises conferences and lectures for the specialist and for the general public. It provides a forum for informed debate on issues of national and international importance. Its multidisciplinary fellowship of men and women of international standing provides independent, expert advice to key decision-making bodies, including Government and Parliament. The Society’s Research Awards programme annually awards well over £1.7 million to exceptionally talented young academics and potential entrepreneurs to promote commercial exploitation of inventiveness and boost wealth-generation. Among its many public benefit The Presidents of the five National Academies in Britain met at the end of October 2006. activities, the RSE is active in Pictured from left to right: Sir Michael Atiyah, President of The Royal Society of Edinburgh; classrooms from the Borders to the Baroness O’Neill, President of The British Academy; Sir Keith Peters, then President of The Northern Isles, with a successful Academy of Medical Sciences; Lord Rees of Ludlow, President of The Royal Society; Lord programme of lectures and hands-on Browne, President of the Royal Academy of Engineering. workshops for primary and secondary school pupils. While supporting science and its This is the time of the year when we The Royal Society of Edinburgh, applications in a variety of ways, the welcome a new cohort of Fellows of the working as part of the UK and within Society continues to be active on a wide RSE and we hope they will over time a global context, is committed to the front. In this issue of the newsletter you contribute their energy and expertise to future of Scotland’s social, economic will see the conferences on social issues our activities. Our Fellowship, with its and cultural well-being. such as that on Transcending Poverty, wide coverage of all fields, is our main held in Glasgow and that on Alternatives resource. to Prison, held in Edinburgh. This latter Sir Michael Atiyah, OM, FRS, PRSE, attracted such notables as the Chief HonFREng,HonFMedSci, HonFFA Justices of England and Ireland. We have also taken a substantial new initiative in the Arts and Humanities, a direction in STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK which we hope to expand further. The RSE Council recently agreed the Last year our Enquiry focused on the Society’s Strategic Framework for Energy needs of Scotland and its report 2007-2012. This sets our strategic appeared at an opportune time and was direction for the next five years, well received. We have maintained the establishing the way ahead for momentum in this field by following up Fellows and Staff, and seeking to the report with public meetings all over encourage others to work in Scotland. This activity will culminate in a partnership with us. A copy of the major conference in Edinburgh next Framework can be obtained on our month which will, we hope, clarify the web-site at decisions that will face the new Scottish www.royalsoced.org.uk/corporate/ Parliament. corporate_plan/framework.pdf
3 Election 2007 Outstanding New Fellows will FELLOWS ACKLAND, Graeme J. Professor of strengthen Society’s Public-Benefit Computer Simulation and Head of Condensed Matter Group, University of Capacity Edinburgh
Sixty-five new Fellows were appointed in March 2007 and will be welcomed to the BEATH, John A. Professor of Economics, Fellowship at an Induction Ceremony at the end of April. RSE President, Sir Michael University of St Andrews; Chairman, Atiyah commented: Economic Research Institute of Northern Ireland; Member, Review Body on Doctors’ I am delighted to be able to welcome such an outstanding array of new Fellows to the and Dentists’ Remuneration Society. Conferring the accolade of Fellowship on individuals recognised as amongst the best minds in Scotland and around the world, is the beginning, not the end, of the BEST, Simon G. Chairman, Ardana plc; Society’s purpose. The collective expertise and experience of the Fellowship enables the The Edinburgh University Technology RSE to uphold its Royal Charter of 1783 for the “advancement of learning and useful Fund; The UK BioIndustry Association knowledge” and deliver meaningful, public-benefit activities today. BIRD, Michael I. Chair in Environmental Chosen in recognition of significant achievement in their fields and contribution to Change, University of St Andrews public service, a broad spectrum of expertise is represented in the new list of Fellows. BISHOP, Christopher M. FREng. Deputy Director, Microsoft Research, Cambridge; Professor of Computer Science, University CORRESPONDING FELLOWS of Edinburgh
BROWN, Gavin. AO, FAA. Vice-Chancellor and Principal, University of Sydney, Australia BLACKWOOD, Douglas H R. Professor of Psychiatric Genetics, Royal Edinburgh DUNCAN, Ian. Professor of English and Head of Department of English, University of Hospital California-Berkeley, USA BOOTH, Nuala A. Personal Chair in HANSKI, Ilkka A. Professor of Zoology, Department of Ecology and Systematics, Molecular Haemostasis and Thrombosis, University of Helsinki, Finland University of Aberdeen KRYLOV, Nicolai V. Samuel G Ordway Professor of Mathematics, University of BROPHY, Peter J. Mary Dick Professor of Minnesota, USA Veterinary Anatomy and Cell Biology & LAERUM, Ole D. Professor of Experimental Pathology and Oncology, University of Director of the Centre for Neuroscience Bergen, Norway Research, University of Edinburgh MCALLISTER, Ian. Professor of Political Science and Honorary Professor, University of BROWN, Stewart J. Professor of Aberdeen, Australian National University Ecclesiastical History, University of Edinburgh MCKAY, Ronald D G. Head, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, USA BROWN, John R. Chairman: Governing Council of the Roslin Institute; SE Life PALOUS, Jan. Professor and Head of Department of Galaxies and Planetary Systems; Sciences Industry Advisory Group; Scottish Member of Council, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague Biomedical; ITI Life Sciences Advisory Board THOMSON, Angus W. Professor of Surgery, Immunology and Molecular Genetics & BUCKLAND, Stephen T. Professor of Biochemistry, Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh School Statistics and Co-Director of the National of Medicine, USA Centre for Statistical Ecology, University of TORRANCE, Very Reverend Iain R. President, Princeton Theological Seminary, USA St Andrews CAIRNS, John W. Professor of Legal History, University of Edinburgh CAMPBELL, D Murray. Professor of Musical Acoustics, University of Edinburgh CARTER, Richard. Professor of Parasite Genetics, University of Edinburgh CLARK, Andy. Professor of Logic and Metaphysics, University of Edinburgh
Very Reverend Professor Iain R Torrance Professor Ilkka Hanski
4 CRAWFORD, John W. Professor of GREENFIELD, Baroness Susan. CBE. LOASBY, Brian. FBA. Emeritus and Theoretical Biology, University of Abertay Professor of Pharmacology, University of Honorary Professor of Economics, Dundee Oxford; Director of the Royal Institution of University of Stirling Great Britain; Chancellor, Heriot-Watt DALKEITH, Sir Richard W J Montagu- MACMILLAN, James L. CBE. Composer/ University Douglas-Scott, Earl of. President, The Conductor in Association with the BBC National Trust for Scotland HARDCASTLE, William J. FBA. Professor Philharmonic Orchestra of Speech Sciences and Director of the DAWSON, Martin. Associate Director, MASTERTON, Gordon G T. FREng. Vice- Speech Science Research Centre, Queen Institute of Phototonics, University of President, Jacobs Environment Business Margaret University Strathclyde Unit; Immediate Past President, The HILLSTON, Jane. Professor of Quantitative Institution of Civil Engineers DHOLAKIA, Kishan. Professor of Physics, Modelling; EPSRC Advanced Research University of St Andrews MCCAIG, Colin D. Regius Professor of Fellow, University of Edinburgh Physiology & Head of School of Medical DUNLOP, James S. Professor of HOLYOAKE, Tessa L. Professor of Sciences, University of Aberdeen Extragalactic Astronomy & Head of Experimental Haematology, University of Institute of Astronomy, University of MCCOLL, Kenneth E L. Professor of Glasgow; Honorary Consultant Edinburgh Gastroenterology, University of Glasgow; Haematologist, Royal Infirmary Glasgow Honorary Consultant, Western Infirmary EL-OMAR, Emad M. Professor of Gastroenterology and Honorary MOTHERWELL, William B. FRS. Consultant Physician, University of Alexander Williamson Professor of Aberdeen Chemistry, University College London FITZPATRICK, Julie. Scientific Director and PENDER, Gareth. Professor of Chief Executive, Moredun Research Environmental Engineering & Director of Institute Research, School of the Built Environment, Heriot-Watt University FORRESTER, Duncan B. Professor Emeritus of Christian Ethics and Practical PICKERING, Martin J. Professor of the Theology, University of Edinburgh Psychology of Language and Professor Tessa L Holyoake Communication, University of Edinburgh FOSS, Sergey. Professor of Applied Probability, Heriot-Watt University HORNER, R Malcolm W. Emeritus SCULLION, Adrienne C. James Arnott Professor of Engineering Management & Professor of Drama and Head of Theatre GADD, Geoffrey M. Professor of Senior Research Fellow, University of Studies, University of Glasgow Microbiology and Head of Division of Dundee Environmental and Applied Biology, SECOMBES, Christopher J. Professor of University of Dundee HUNTER, James. CBE. Professor of Zoology and Head of School of Biological History of the Highlands & Islands and Sciences, University of Aberdeen GALLAGHER, Jim D. CB. Professor of Director of the UHI Centre for History; Government, University of Glasgow; SIEGERT, Martin J. Professor of Board member, SNH Visiting Professor, Glasgow Caledonian Geosciences and Head of School of University JARRETT, Ruth F. Professor of Molecular GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh Pathology & Head of Division of GILLESPIE, David A F. Professor of Pathological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary SORACE, Antonella. Professor of Molecular Cell Biology, University of Medicine, University of Glasgow Developmental Linguistics, University of Glasgow; Research Group Leader, Beatson Edinburgh Institute JEFFERY, Charles A. Professor of Politics SULLIVAN, Peter M. Professor of and Co-Director of the Institute of GRAHAM, Duncan. Director of the Centre Philosophy, University of Stirling Governance, University of Edinburgh; for Molecular Nanometrology, University of Council Member, ESRC WEISS, Michael. Chair in Mathematical Strathclyde KAY, John. FBA. Visiting Professor, Sciences, University of Aberdeen London School of Economics WILLISON, Hugh J. Professor of Clinical Neurosciences & Honorary Consultant LAURIE, Graeme T. Professor of Medical Neurologist, Southern General Hospital, Jurisprudence and Co-Director of AHRC Glasgow Research Centre in Intellectual Property and Technological Law, University of WISHART, Jennifer G. Professor of Edinburgh Developmental Disabilities in Childhood, LEES, Kennedy R. Professor of Moray House School of Education, Cerebrovascular Medicine, University of University of Edinburgh Glasgow Professor Duncan Graham 5 International
INTERNATIONALINTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE EXCHANGE PROGRAMME PROGRAMME One of the main functions of the International Committee of the RSE is to award short-term travel grants to enable Scottish researchers to establish links with colleagues in other countries with a view to a long lasting collaboration, through joint publications and joint applications for longer term funds. These International Exchange Programme grants are available to all researchers of postdoctoral level and above, not only to Fellows of the RSE. These awards are perhaps particularly appropriate for early stage researchers to facilitate establishing international connections. Around 70 International Exchange Awards have been granted this financial year. Five visits supported by the International Exchange Programme are described below.
Dr Stefan Erhardt, Heriot-Watt University Institution Visited: Professor Walter Thiel, Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, Germany Dr. Javier Pérez-Barbería, Senior Modern methods in theoretical enzymatic mechanism investigations are able to Researcher, Population ecologist, The model the complete enzyme and still perform accurate calculations for the active site, Macaulay Institute hence are able to verify experimental results and sometimes give insight where Institute Visited: Dr Ramon Soriguer- experimental data are difficult to obtain. ChemShell links a variety of quantum Escofet, Estacion Biologica de Donan, mechanical and molecular mechanical programs. This makes it possible to treat less Spain important parts of an enzyme with lower accuracy, but the active site quantum- The visit has served to conclude the mechanically. These newly available theoretical methods allied to steadily increasing writing-up of a paper that was computer power make it possible to investigate enzymatic reactions with only a few initiated during a previous RSE-funded model restrictions, therefore, allowing us to understand the functionality of enzymes visit, and also facilitated a useful and possibly showing us a discussion on the future of ongoing way to control their projects between the two institutions. reactivity. Preliminary analyses of new datasets During Dr Erhart’s visit he on animal conditions in Cervids and learnt to use ChemShell and climate change were carried out CHARMM, which will be his during the stay. These analyses are very main tools in future promising and a more comprehensive investigations on the human dataset is being gathered across nitric oxide synthase. As a Europe, the results of which are likely result of this visit, Dr Erhart to be presented in a paper. A talk was and Professor Thiel are given as part of the Autumn conducting an ongoing Programme of the University of Jaén. quantum mechanical and Collaboration with this University was molecular mechanical study initiated to apply for an EU project on on the Nitric Oxide Synthase the effects of the herbivory on the by using the ChemShell biodiversity of protected areas in the software. South West of Europe. During the visit Dr Pérez-Barbería ran some explorative Nitric Oxide Synthase with a 30 Angstrom shell of water analysis using the Cervidae dataset to around the active site test how an animal’s performance Scottish-based host: Professor is familiar with bio-materials. The responds to climate change and how Margaret Stack, University of properties of bio-materials (like this response varies between species Strathclyde hydroxyl-apatite), which will be used on and countries. The results were very Visitor: Professor Wang-Long LI, teeth, are supported by Taiwan’s group; promising and contacts were National Kaohsiung University of and the experiments on the resistance established to have access to similar Applied Sciences, Taiwan to erosion and abrasion are supported datasets across Europe in order to Teeth are important for our daily life. by the tribology group at the University widen the study area. The visit also The related products (toothpaste) and of Strathclyde. During this visit Professor resulted in a joint manuscript to be environment in mouth (pH of our food) Stack discussed the potential for further submitted to Ecology. affect teeth significantly. The tribology collaboration on this research topic group at the University of Strathclyde including the potential for further visits has fruitful research results in erosion and joint publications, and is working and corrosion. The research group in to secure funding to develop this Taiwan, including professors in collaboration. tribology, material science and dentistry,
6 Dr Simon Thirgood (pictured bottom left), The Macaulay Institute Scottish-based host: Professor Avril Institution Visited: Professor Ruijun Long (pictured bottom right), North West Taylor, Associate Dean for Research Plateau Institute of Biology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences in the School of Social Sciences and Director of the Institute of Applied Social and Health Research, University of Paisley Visitor: Dr Gail Gilchrist, Senior Research Fellow, the Department of General Practice, the University of Melbourne, Australia
The purpose of the visit was to facilitate the continuation and development of existing research collaborations. During the visit Professor Taylor and Dr Gilchrist co- authored an academic paper “Drug users’ children: is caring enough?”, and Dr Gilchrist presented the findings from the above study and findings The purpose of the visit was to explore control” programmes with from a study of maternal drug users in the opportunities for collaborative corresponding impacts on biodiversity Melbourne to staff and students at the research between the Macaulay Institute and ecosystem function. School of Social Sciences and local and the North West Plateau Institute of The first area of collaboration as a result Alcohol and Drug Action Teams. They Biology and Lanzhou University. The of this visit is the analysis and also worked to develop future joint most pressing environmental issue in publication of existing long-term data research proposals in the area of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau is from the Sunnan area of Gansu maternal substance users and their overgrazing. The Chinese government’s Province. The second is the joint children. Having the opportunity to focus in the past 40 years has been to supervision of existing and new Chinese discuss, present and receive feedback increase animal production in the north- PhD students working in the Headwater from peers on current research western provinces. Livestock densities of Yellow River area of Qinghai Province. findings and future research proposals have increased and heavy grazing has These students will focus on linkages was felt to be excellent, and the led to loss of vegetation cover and soil between soil microbial processes and opportunity to work together face to erosion in some areas and invasion by above-ground biodiversity. face was invaluable. While in Scotland, unpalatable species of plants in others. Finally, long-term experiments are to be Dr Gilchrist also visited four specialist The situation is more complex however, set up that are needed to tease apart services for maternal substance users with two species of small mammals – the complex interactions between and their children to inform the the pika and zokor – also blamed for livestock, rodents, vegetation and development of a complex intervention overgrazing. Both species are poisoned climate change. for a future randomised control trial in in government-sponsored “rodent Melbourne.
INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMME - ELIGIBILITY AND DEADLINES
The International Exchange Programme is open to Scottish-based researchers of at least postdoctoral status for visits of up to 4 weeks – either to Scotland or to the collaborator’s overseas institution. Through the Bilateral Exchange Programme, costs are shared by the RSE and its bilateral partners (sister academies with which we have established agreements). Applications are also invited for the Open Exchange Programme, which is for exchanges between Scotland and countries not covered by the RSE’s bilateral agreements. Both Exchange Programmes are open to Fellows and non- Fellows of the Society. The deadlines for applications this year are: 30 April, 2 July (please note this is different from previously advertised) and 31 October. Applications for the Bilateral Programme are invited for all three deadlines, however please check the RSE website for confirmation of the deadlines for the Open Programme www.royalsoced.org.uk/international
7 Scottish Science Advisory Committee
The SSAC was established to provide independent advice to Scottish Executive Ministers on strategic scientific issues. Its membership represented a breadth of expertise and knowledge across a range of scientific disciplines and interests that included education, research, engineering and MEMBERSHIP AND technology, medicine, industry and, to a lesser extent ethics, public engagement SECRETARIAT and public policy. Established in 2002 under the auspices of the RSE and chaired by Professor Wilson 2006 Membership Its medium-to-long-term horizon- Sibbett, the Scottish Science Advisory Professor Wilson Sibbett (Chair) CBE scanning has helped in formulating its Committee’s output has been significant. Professor Steven Beaumont OBE advice on key science strategies. Following the appointment of Professor Professor Geoffrey Boulton OBE Particular emphases have been directed Anne Glover as the new Chief Scientific Professor Muffy Calder towards education, science and Adviser for Scotland, from January this year Professor Sir Kenneth Calman KCB technology priorities and science the responsibilities of the SSAC transferred Professor John Coggins policies, with the overall aim of to the Scottish Executive. Just as the RSE Professor Julie Fitzpatrick improving not only the profile of our remains ready to provide any appropriate Professor Peter Grant science and scientists but also the support to Professor Glover, many of the Dr Stuart Monro OBE social, environmental and economic members of the SSAC agreed to help in Professor Peter Morgan prosperity of Scotland. A key role for prioritising recommendations to Ministers Professor Richard Morris the SSAC has been the enhancement of about the way forward. The RSE is most Dr John Nicholls communication for science and grateful to the members of the SSAC and Professor Stuart Reid scientists in Scotland. This is seen as an its secretariat, for their contributions to its Professor Jonathan Seckl ongoing activity that will be followed work and, in particular to Professor Wilson Dr Barbara Spruce up in conjunction with the CSA’s Office Sibbett for his leadership, insight and Professor Joyce Tait CBE in the coming months. drive. Chris van der Kuyl Full details of the following SSAC Eur Ing Graham Wren reports and working parties can be found at: www.scottishscience.org.uk/ Past Members Why Science Education Matters: Professor Jane Bower Supporting and Improving Science Dr Donald Bruce Education in Scottish Schools Professor Tariq Durrani OBE Mrs Sarah Fletcher Science Matters: making the right Professor Margaret Gill connections for Scotland Professor Sally Macintyre OBE Knowledge Transfer: Science to Scottish Professor Andrea Nolan Business Ian Ritchie CBE Professor John Savill R&D in Industry Working Group Professor Sir David Wallace CBE, DL Investing in Scientific Talent Dr John Whitelock Networks of Scientific Excellence Secretariat Scientific Network of Excellence in Dr Avril Davidson (Head of Secretariat Energy 2002-2006) Dr Marc Rands (Acting Head of Research Excellence in Medical Imaging Secretariat 2006) Animal Bioscience Research in Scotland Ms Tracy Rickard (PA/Administrator 2002-2006) Research Excellence in e-health Ms Ekua Hayford (PA/Administrator 2006)
8 Public Engagement
TEN YEARS OF DOLLY THE SHEEP
A Discussion Forum was held in the evening, chaired by Professor Grahame Bulfield, CBE, FRSE, University of Edinburgh, to which Dr Donald Bruce, Director, Society, Religion and Technology Project, Church of Scotland, Professor Ian Wilmut, OBE FRS FRSE, Professor of Reproductive Science, University of Edinburgh Centre for Reproductive Biology Cells from Cloned Human Nottingham and Professor Alan The tenth anniversary of the creation of Embryos for Drug Discovery, Professor Holland, Emeritus Professor of Dolly the Sheep was celebrated in Keith Campbell, Professor of Animal Applied Philosophy, University of February with a day of family events held Development, University of at the Royal Museum. Young people Lancaster, contributed. Such were invited to meet the scientist who questions as Dolly - Cracking led the team that created Dolly and the Nature’s Mould?, Dolly - Did she vet who cared for her and to find out open a gateway to the future? and from Museum staff how she was Dolly - Icon or Iconoclast? were prepared for display. Those present also addressed as some of the scientific took part in various workshops, and moral implications of Dolly’s including art workshops for younger creation were debated. An children and the opportunity for interesting and lively discussion youngsters over 10 years old to extract followed and a report of the their own DNA. presentations and discussion is now available on the RSE web site.
GANNOCHY TRUST INNOVATION PRIZE LECTURE
Protein-coated microcrystal (PCMC) is a The Gannochy Trust particle-engineering technology that is Innovation Award of being applied to the drug delivery of a the Royal Society of range of biomolecules, including Edinburgh is vaccines and DNA. Scotland’s highest Dr. Parker’s lecture focused on the key accolade for individual advantages of the PCMC technology and achievement in these include providing stable particles innovation and has of protein-based medicines that are been created to suitable for delivery across a wide range, encourage and reward for example: by powder inhalation, Scotland’s young suspension delivery for injection and innovators for work other delivery routes. Marie Claire is which benefits The Gannochy Trust Innovation Award using the award of £50,000 in two key Scotland’s wellbeing Prize Lecture was given in March this year areas: development of a new cost- CLOSING DATE by Dr Marie Claire Parker who was the effective and robust continuous FOR AWARD: FRIDAY 27 APRIL 2006 winner of the Award. Dr Parker is manufacturing process for the 2007 CEO of XstalBio Ltd, a University of preparation of stable vaccine-based For further information and application Glasgow and University of Strathclyde particles, together with the continued form contact Anne Fraser - spin-out company, which developed as a marketing of the technology. In addition, [email protected] - 0131 240 result of an RSE/Scottish Enterprise the lecture covered some of the hurdles 5013 Enterprise Fellowship held by Dr Parker in and highlights encountered over the last 2001. few years, in taking university-based research to the marketplace.
FORTHCOMING EVENTS TICKETS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL RSE EVENTS. To book tickets online, visit www.royalsoced.org.uk or contact [email protected] for further information. APRIL 2007 Unless stated otherwise, events are held at the RSE. Monday 30 April 2007 at 5.30 pm Friday 18 May 2007 LECTURE FULL-DAY CONFERENCE The Unpredictability of Science and Union of 1707 Its Consequences Sir John Meurig Thomas, FRS HonFREng HonFRSE, Honorary Professor, Department of Materials Science, University of Cambridge and former Director, Royal Institution of Great Britain In chemical science as well as in most branches of natural philosophy, expert practitioners of their subject, judging by past experience, are often no better than their younger colleagues or members of the general public in forseeing the scientific and technological future. The veracity of this statement will be illustrated (in terms that will be intelligible to non-experts), and the reasons why this is so will be elaborated by reference to specific discoveries, advances and 2007 sees the tercentenary of one of the developments in chemistry, physics, medicine, molecular biology and astronomy. most controversial moments in Scottish Please note that this lecture will follow the New Fellows Induction. A limited number of history: the parliamentary Union with tickets are available to existing Fellows. England in 1707. This conference aims to showcase the work of an exciting new generation of Scottish historians engaged MAY 2007 in revising the traditional agenda of debate on the Union. Not only was the Tuesday 1 May 2007 at 2.15 pm Friday 11 May 2007 at 10 am at era of Union a scene of conflict between at The Edinburgh International the Department of Physics, competing nationalist and unionist visions Conference Centre (EICC) University of Strathclyde, of Scotland’s future, but the period also DISCUSSION Glasgow needs to be understood in the light of a FORUM RSE CORMACK BEQUEST CONFERENCE vigorous culture of popular politics Ageing Multi-Wavelength Astronomy; The beyond the parliamentary elite, fierce Population observable universe from radio to religious debates over the status of the New research gamma rays Kirk, and a major European war. A which aims to conference fee will apply. Lunch and have a direct refreshments will be provided. impact on the quality of life of the ageing population in Scotland, is being Thursday 24 May 2007 at the made possible through a partnership University of Stirling (time tbc) between The Royal Society of Edinburgh Autonomy in Clinical and Research and Lloyds TSB Foundation for Scotland. Ethics Both organisations are committed to Monday 28 May 2007 at the disseminating knowledge about the real Royal Museum, Edinburgh at benefits of their research partnership. 5.30 pm Contributed talks and posters are solicited Trust and Accountability in All interested are invited to this event from the astronomy and space-science Professional and Public Life which forms part of the Lloyds TSB community. Oral contributions are CALEDONIAN RESEARCH FOUNDATION Foundation for Scotland’s Annual especially welcome from young scientists, PRIZE LECTURE Forum. Three Research Fellows will especially final year PhD’s and all post-docs Baroness Onora O’Neill of Bengarve, demonstrate how the funding awarded in astronomy related backgrounds. Young President, The British Academy enables them to carry out research scientists presenting a poster will be which has and will benefit the ageing considered for the poster prize sponsored population in Scotland. by Clyde Space. Speakers at this event include Professor Steve Rawlings, on Free to all - ticket required. Please LOFAR and SKA; and also Dr Philip Best on reigster by contacting Anne Fraser AGN Feedback. See www.phys.strath.ac.uk/ [email protected] - 0131 240 cormack_meet for registration and 5013 participation details.
10 Thursday 31 May 2007 at Wednesday 20 June 2007 at 6.15 pm at the Teacher 5.30 pm Building, 14 St Enoch LECTURE Square, Glasgow Architecture in Nano-Space INTERNATIONAL BRUNEL LECTURE Professor Sir Harry Kroto. FRS, Engineering Civilisation from HonFRSE, Royal Society Research the Shadows Professor, School of Chemistry, Professor Paul Jowitt FRSE, Physics and Environmental Science, Professor of Civil Engineering University of Sussex Systems and Executive Director, Multidisciplinary research has Scottish Institute of Sustainable developed the field of Nanoscience and Technology (SISTech), Heriot-Watt Nanotechnology. Molecules that “do University, Vice-President, things” are now being made. New Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) experimental approaches focused on How can engineers help to alleviate how atoms cluster together have led to worldwide the production of novel nanostructures poverty? What and a general refocusing of research role can they interests on controlling self-assembly JULY 2007 play in process. Fascinating fundamental addressing the insights into formation mechanisms Monday 2 July 2007 impacts felt by have been revealed and nanoscale FULL-DAY CONFERENCE climate devices, which parallel devices in change? How standard engineering are now being 250th Anniversary of the Birth of Thomas Telford can they create a more sustainable created. On the horizon are possible future for civilisation? These are the applications ranging from civil The Royal Society key themes covered in this year’s engineering to advanced molecular of Edinburgh is Brunel International Lecture which electronics. Supercomputers in our celebrating the will be taken across the globe. pockets (as well as our heads) and 250th anniversary For further information and tickets buildings which can easily withstand of one of its most please contact: Linda Collins, powerful hurricanes and earthquakes eminent Fellows, Institution of Civil Engineers. Tel: may be possible. Thomas Telford. 01503 336 981 This conference is [email protected] intended to This lecture is organised jointly with inform civil the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) engineers and interested JUNE 2007 members of the Monday 18 June 2007 at 5.30 public who want pm to know more about Telford’s ENVIRONMENTAL CHOICES LECTURE achievements. It is part of national Brushes with foxes and other celebrations being co-ordinated across carnivore tales the UK by the Institution of Civil Professor David MacDonald, Director, Engineers marking this notable Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, anniversary. A conference fee will apply. Oxford University David Macdonald’s pioneering The Conference will be followed by the approach to studying animal RSE Summer Soirée, being held at behaviour using pure and applied Edinburgh’s Telford College, which conference participants can attend. The methods revealed unknown intricacies The lecture will examine carnivore evening will involve an exhibition, in foxes’ social behaviour. This leap societies ranging from badgers in musical entertainment and a buffet was made possible through advances Britain, to wolves in Ethiopia and lions supper. Tickets for the soirèe in behavioural ecology, radiotracking in Zimbabwe. The linked themes will be will cost £35 each and are available on and night vision technology. The the intricacy of mammalian societies a first-come first-served basis. findings formed the basis of science and the relevance of that understanding used to control wildlife rabies and led to their conservation. to the establishment of Oxford Universities WildCRU – a world leading The full list of RSE events appears on the RSE website, research unit. www.royalsoced.org.uk/events and in the RSE events diary, available from the Events Team - [email protected] 11 Free, fully organised educational activities for young Young People people throughout Scotland
RSE Roadshows Hands on Workshop for P6 and P7 pupils Ullapool - February 2007 The ‘Chimp Challenge’ workshop for P6 and 7 pupils was delivered by Annie Graham, Edinburgh Zoo’s Education Officer. This is an exciting large scale board game linking into the 5-14 Environmental Guidelines and Global Citizenship.
During the last week of February the RSE visited Ullapool High School. The following workshops were delivered over two days and all of Ullapool’s feeder Primary schools attended, including: - Badcaul/S coraig and Achiltibuie Primaries in one group of 14 students; Pupils experienced a selection of tastes, smells, music, costumes and problem- solving - Ullapool Gaelic Primary 6/7 with some from real-life situations that the animals and people of Budongo Forest, Uganda face. English-speaking P6s in a group of 26; It not only provided an excellent follow-up to studying a rainforest topic but also - Lochinver and Stoer Primaries in one included observation skills, conservation awareness, Ugandan life and some chimp group of 21 students; and behaviour, resulting in a highly interactive lesson. - Ullapool English Primary 6/7 in a group of 25. Diversity/conservation/breeding programmes – Interactive Talk for S4 and Higher Students Hands-on Maths Workshops for P6 This talk offered the opportunity to explore the role of modern zoos and learn about and P7 pupils were delivered by how studbook keepers use computer dating to maintain genetic diversity within a Teresa Carr captive population. It also provided information on some of the important research These included: and in situ projects that zoos currently support to help in the conservation of wild Workshop 1 - Codes and Circles. animals. Once upon a time there were three circles, a great big daddy circle, a medium Black Holes and Small Bangs - Astronomy Talk for S5 and S6 Students by sized mummy circle and a little tiny baby Professor Alan Heavens circle. Find a code that will help you all What happens to a star? Big stars are in delicate draw the same picture of domestic bliss; balance, kept alive by a big nuclear reactor in the and, middle. But what happens when the fuel runs Workshop 2 - Rolling Marbles. out? Some stars don’t take it very well, and A Triangle and a Game Called Chinese explode violently in a supernova explosion. Others Nim. may collapse dramatically into a Black Hole. How can a simple board for rolling Professor Heavens’ talk explored the strange marbles produce a magical triangle? properties of curved space around Black Holes and Hidden patterns are as simple as 1, 2, 3 wormholes, time travel and the physics in the and as complicated as a famous fractal movies. called Sierpinski’s triangle. Then of Professor Heavens is Professor of Theoretical course there is the completely unrelated Astrophysics at the University of Edinburgh. His research interests include exploring game “Chinese Nim”. the properties of the Universe using light bending, the fireball radiation of the Big Bang, and the formation of the galaxies.
Astronomy Talk for the Public - Black Holes and Small Bangs at Ullapool High School Professor Heavens’ talk from the afternoon was adapted for an evening lecture which included an opportunity for questions. Repeating the school lecture created an opportunity to allow the general public to get involved. Those present in the audience included teachers, friends and parents, as well as general members of the local community.
12 Stem Cell CD – Rom Following the Stem Cell Research Discussion Forum which took place last year, this project has been expanded to enable all students from throughout Scotland to access the resources associated with the event. To this end a CD-Rom, including video material of all the presentations that occurred during the Discussion Forum, resources for teachers and a student debate pack have been produced and these will be sent to all schools in Scotland during March and April 2007. The RSE has also compiled a report of the day which highlights students’ opinions on this important topic and this report will accompany the CD-Rom and has previously been sent to Scotland’s key Public Policy- makers.These resources will also available at www.royalsoced.org.uk/ schools/e-learning/index.htm
Startup Science Science and Technology Masterclasses Startup Science is intended to give young people in S1 and S2, who have a shown ability and interest in science and technology, the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and experience. It is hoped that the classes will be of lasting benefit to participants. On completion of all four classes, pupils are presented with a certificate. Between March and June 2007 classes will be held in Aberdeen, St Andrews and Dundee Universities on Saturday mornings, where, for example, some of the following issues will be investigated: Would you like to take a “Smell Challenge” in flavours and fragrances or find out about the weird and wonderful animals that live deep in the sea? Do you want to find out what fossils can tell us about Scotland’s past or test your detective skills in Chemical Cluedo? Do you want to know more about the millions of microbes all around us or find out about the monkey business of the ring-tailed lemur?
For further information on all of the above, visit our website - www.royalsoced.org.uk/schools or contact the RSE Education Team - 0131 240 5000 - [email protected] 13 Fellows’ Notice Board
SUMMER SOIRÉE FELLOWS DECEASED On Monday 2 July 2007, following the conference being held earlier that day to It is with much regret that we record celebrate the 250th anniversary of Thomas Telford, the RSE’s Summer Soirée will take the deaths of the following Fellows: place at Edinburgh’s Telford College. The evening will involve an exhibition, musical Professor John Swanson BECK entertainment and a buffet supper. Tickets for the Summer Soirée will cost £35 each Professor Kenneth Walter BENTLEY for Fellows and their guests. Further details will be sent to all Fellows, but as places Professor Alan Geoffrey BROWN will be available on a first-come first-served basis, if you wish to register your interest Professor Martin David KRUSKAL in attending please e-mail [email protected] as soon as possible. Sir Ian Alexander McGREGOR CBE Dr Magnus MAGNUSSON HonKBE Dr Harold J THOMAS
MEMORIAL CONCERT
Dame Muriel Spark died in April 2006. A Memorial Concert as a celebration for her life is being given at the Wigmore Hall, London on 17 April 2007 at 7.30 pm . Tickets can be obtained from the Wigmore Hall box office - 0207 935 2141 or at www.wigmore-hall.org.com
NEW YEAR HONOURS LIST FELLOWS HONOURED
Order of the British Empire Professor Alan Newell has been named a Fellow of the New York-based Association Commander (CBE) for Computing Machinery, for his contributions to developing computer-based systems Professor Alexander McCall Smith for people with disabilities. Dr Robert Royds Dickson Lord MacFarlane of Bearsden KT has received the Freedom of the City of Glasgow. Officer (OBE) Professor Ron Asher has been elected an Honorary Fellow of Sahitya Akademi, India’s Professor Susanne Moira Brown National Academy of Letters Mr Richard John Murphy Professor Richard Morris, FRS has been elected a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and of the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. He STAFF NEWS was also awarded the prestigious Feldberg Prize in 2006 given to one German and one British biomedical scientist each year. Lindsay Conn who provided administration support for the Society’s Science & Society activites left in FELLOWS’ GOLF OUTING November 2006. Sue Walker, Events Officer, returned in January after a The Fellows’ Golf outing this year will be at Buchanan Castle Golf Club on 24 August. period of maternity leave and Jean Cost will be £40 for coffee and rolls, 18 holes of golf followed by two-course meal. Geoghegan joined as Accounts Officer. Contact [email protected] to register interest. At the end of March, Lia Brennan who, LEGACIES covered Sue’s maternity leave in the Union of 1707 This form of giving makes an extremely Events Team left to return to Ireland. valuable contribution to the resources DISCUSSION SUPPER Ian Melville, who served as Policy available to registered charities, as well Officer during Marc Rands period (Fellows only) as having tax benefits for the donor’s covering for Avril Davidson, resumed estate. Any Fellow interested in on Friday 18 May 2007 his retirement. discussing, in confidence, how a legacy might contribute further to the life of Maggie Tait, receptionist since 2002, cost £25 the Society and its public-benefit retired in March after a period of ill- activities, is invited to contact the Chief health. We wish Maggie a long, happy For further details and to reserve places Executive, Dr William Duncan, and healthy retirement. contact: [email protected] or RSE [email protected] Treasurer, Edward Cunningham, [email protected]
14 Fellows@work
The Society is keen to keep up to date with Fellows’ activities and by profiling them, where appropriate, seek to increase collaboration and the cross-fertilisation of ideas. Having read of Sir Michael Atiyah’s commitment to raising the profile of James Clerk-Maxwell in Scotland, RSE Fellow, Professor David Leigh contacted the Society to voice his support and to share information about related work he is pioneering. To contribute to Fellows@work please e.mail: [email protected]
‘The molecular information ratchet team’ Left-to-right: Prof Dave Leigh, Dr Chin-Fa Lee, Dr Viviana Serreli and Dr Euan Kay
Professor Leigh and his team at the Professor Leigh explains: What we’ve University of Edinburgh’s Chemistry made is a molecule with two department have achieved the compartments separated by a molecular experimental realisation of a version of ‘trapdoor’. Located in one of the two the famous ‘thought-experiment’, compartments is a molecular ring. When ‘Maxwell’s Demon’, conceived by Clerk- light is shone on the system, a Maxwell nearly 140 years ago. The mechanism operates such that if the ring ‘molecular information ratchet’ uses is in the left-hand compartment the light energy to fuel information trapdoor opens momentarily and the transfer, a fundamentally new type of ring can sometimes pass through to the motor-mechanism for artificial right-hand compartment by Brownian nanomachines. motion before the trapdoor closes. If the ring is in the right-hand compartment, however, the trapdoor rarely opens, even when the light is shining. The net effect is that for an ensemble of molecules the rings tend to accumulate in the right- Illustration by Peter Macdonald – Edmonds UK hand compartment, driving the statistical distribution away from thermodynamic Thermodynamics, but rather to come up equilibrium just like in Maxwell’s with new motor-mechanisms for artificial celebrated thought experiment. The big nanomachines. Many believe that difference between our ‘real’ system and nanotechnology will have the same sort Maxwell’s imaginary one, of course, is of impact on our society and economy as that our experimental set-up requires an the steam engine, the transistor and the input of energy (light) which means our internet. We believe these sorts of molecules are not some kind of molecular machines will help power this perpetual motion machine, they need a revolution. fuel just like any other engine. Indeed, the reason for doing this sort of research is not to try to violate the Second Law of Illustration by Regina Fernandes – Illugraphics
15 Thomas Telford - 250 years
Thomas Telford was the greatest Scottish civil engineer, whose innovative achievements spanned bridge, canal, road, harbour and public health construction of unparalleled benefit to society extending down to today. He was born into a humble shepherding family in the Scottish borders in 1757 but, after stonemasonry experience, became a self-taught practical engineer applying then state-of-the-art technology to myriad transport-related projects across the UK and to Sweden, Canada and Russia.
250 years after his birth, the Royal Society of Edinburgh is planning a celebratory Conference in July 2007, to inform specialist delegates and the public of the vast range and number of Telford’s civil engineering achievements that benefit us all. Few will be aware that thousands of works used by the general public and transport organisations on a daily basis today are Telford structures and that his Menai Bridge was a landmark in world suspension bridge development. This conference is part of national celebrations across the country marking the birth and achievements of an exceptional Scot who was honoured by being buried in Westminster Abbey.
COPY ADDRESS INFORMATION Please send any copy to Jenny Liddell at 22-26 GEORGE STREET website: www.royalsoced.org.uk the Society - EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND www.rsescotlandfoundation.org.uk [email protected] EH2 2PQ e-mail: [email protected] Any opinions expressed in this ReSourcE : ISSN No 1473-7841 newsletter are not necessarily those of Tel: 0131 240 5000 replaces RSE News all RSE Fellows Fax: 0131 240 5024